The Federal Labor Government’s new Schoolkids Bonus has started landing in the bank accounts of local families.

Member for Reid, John Murphy MP, said families would receive their Schoolkids Bonus over the next fortnight before their kids return to school.

“The Schoolkids Bonus will help lighten the load of back-to-school costs for thousands of local families as they get their kids ready for school over the next few weeks.

“It helps parents buy uniforms, shoes, school books and stationery, as well as other costs like school excursions, music lessons and sports registration fees,” Mr Murphy said.

Each year eligible families will receive up to $410 for each child in primary school, and up to $820 a year for each high school student paid in two instalments.

“The first Schoolkids Bonus payment has started arriving in bank accounts, so local families have plenty of time to buy the things the kids need for school.

“The Schoolkids Bonus replaces the old Education Tax Refund, which too many families were missing out on.

“A lot of families just couldn’t afford to buy the school items first and then wait months and months to get something back.

“The upfront payment means families do not have to collect a pile of receipts or fill out that extra paperwork at tax time. They money is in their pocket when they need it most – before the kids go back to school,” Mr Murphy said.

Families receiving Family Tax Benefit Part A, as well as young people in school receiving Youth Allowance, and others receiving certain income support or veterans’ payments are eligible for the Schoolkids Bonus.

Families with kids starting primary or high school this year need to make sure their child’s enrolment details are up to date with Centrelink. They can check this on the Centrelink website.

Families who claim their Family Tax Benefit at the end of the financial year will receive their payment then.